I am very fortunate. I was born in a first-world country to a middle-class family. I have had the freedom and the means to discover my passion, and I had the nurturing that encouraged me to hone it.

And largely because of my love for photography, I have seen a great many wonders of this world; I have traveled more since joining a local photography group than most of the years previously, combined.

And I’ve noticed one consistency across all of the places I’ve visited: this world is a remarkably magnificent place.

Verdant valleys give way to stalwart mountain ranges. Mist can roll in and turn a plain watering hole into someplace magical. Clouds can provide a canvas for the most spectacular sunrises.

I feel most at home and at peace when I’m surrounded by majestic trees draped in moss, the air rich with the rejuvenating energy of life. Everything moves and revitalizes and breathes and heals. It’s absolutely amazing. I ache for those who have never felt the profound power of this natural medicine. I’ve only felt the full force of it a handful of times, myself, and there’s no comparable experience.

I believe we too often lose touch with the earth upon which we live. We build walls and shut out nature, confining our personal worlds to desks and concrete prisons. Fortunately, we’re also the wardens, so we can escape anytime we choose, though we seldom make time to.

We all live in a beautiful place, and though it might sound cliche, we should all take the time to stop and smell the sakura every so often. Go out and see all the spectacular wonders all around you.

Love this earth. Your earth. Our earth.

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I love your photography… you have a good eye and a great way with words. I too feel the healing power of nature… whether hiking in the rainforest or standing by the ocean… I breathe in that wonderful power and feel the magic.